When Martin Matson, a 70-year-old retired fire chief from New Jersey, was arrested for having more than 125,000 files containing materials related to child sexual abuse, it was a startling betrayal of trust. The longtime community worker acknowledged that he had gathered these horrifying materials for thirty years while watching over young firefighters and living next to a children’s playground.
Decades of Hidden Depravity Behind a Respected Facade
Matson, the former chief of the now-defunct Greenfields Volunteer Fire Company, was taken into custody following an investigation that began in December 2024. Authorities acted on a cyber tip about suspicious computer uploads at his West Deptford home.
NJ cops say retired fire chief had 125,000 child porn files, plus other disturbing items https://t.co/HVFb8hmeaF @nj1015
— New Jersey 101.5 (@nj1015) May 13, 2025
What investigators discovered was beyond disturbing – electronic devices containing over 125,000 files of child sexual abuse materials. They also found printed images and a collection of children’s underwear hidden in his basement.
Upon his arrest, Matson shockingly admitted that he had collected these materials for approximately 30 years, a timeline that coincides with much of his career as a firefighter and community leader.
Way, way too damned close!! I'd rock that orange jumpsuit if any of my grandbabies got hurt by a predator!
NJ cops say retired fire chief had 125,000 child porn files, plus other disturbing items https://t.co/DOqZRpQQ5W @nj1015
— Donna Bish (@TwistedLadyNJ) May 13, 2025
Community Left Reeling from Betrayal
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit New Jersey community where Matson was known as a respected fire chief. Many residents knew him primarily through his role supervising the junior firefighters program, adding another disturbing dimension to the case.
Neighbors expressed their horror at learning about the activities allegedly taking place in their community. Matson’s home’s location near a playground frequented by children has caused particular anxiety among local parents.
“We are absolutely shocked. You think you know your neighbors, and I guess you don’t.”
Another neighbor voiced concerns about potential surveillance of local children, stating: “That’s creepy. What happened? What was he doing in that house? Was he watching the kids? Was he taking pictures of all the kids at the playground? That’s a big one.”
Legal Proceedings and Child Protection Concerns
Matson is scheduled to appear in court on May 22 to face charges related to possession of child sexual abuse materials. The case highlights the critical importance of cyber tips and vigilant law enforcement in identifying predators hiding in plain sight.
This disturbing case serves as a stark reminder that predators often seek positions of authority and trust within communities. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine if any local children may have been victimized.
For those affected by sexual abuse, resources are available through the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Parents are encouraged to communicate openly with children and report any suspicious activities to authorities immediately.